Drunk Driving

Drunk driving is taken very seriously in Massachusetts. The penalties for a conviction depend upon whether it is treated as a first or a subsequent offense.In addition to facing jail time, fines, and mandatory programming, you will also face a loss or up to a lifetime loss of license through the Massachusetts RMV.

Some Punishments for OUI/DUI/DWI in the State of Massachusetts

Operating under the Influence (OUI) is commonly referred to as DUI or Driving Under Influence or Driving while Intoxicated (DWI).

First-offense DUI

Loss of your driver’s license for 45 to 90 days, up to 2.5 years imprisonment, $500 to $5,000 in fines, fees and a criminal record. You will also be required to participate in a weekly alcohol awareness program.

Second-offense of DUI

Loss of your driver’s license for 45 to 90 days, up to 2.5 years imprisonment, $500 to $5,000 in fines, fees and a criminal record. You will also be required to participate in a weekly alcohol awareness program.

Third-offense and greater DUI and Felony DUI

The third offense calls for a lengthy, mandatory jail sentence of not less than 150 days. While a fourth offense is considered a felony charge and is punishable by a minimum of 1 year in state prison.

Operating with a license suspended for a DUI conviction

A mandatory 60-day sentence is given to a driver with a suspended license for DUI who are arrested for the same count. A $500 fine and additional suspension of license is also given.

DUI Drugs

The laws and punishment for drug-related DUI and alcohol are the same in the state of MA.

DUI by drivers under 21

The first-offense punishment for under aged drivers are far more severe than others as a person under 21 years or age need only 0.02 Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) for his/her license to be suspended for 210 days.

For a BAC of 0.08 or greater, an under aged driver may be convicted of drunk driving and face the same penalties as a driver over 21.

Lengthier suspension of license for 3 years is given to drivers under the age of 21 who refuse to take the breath test.

Defense for Drunk Driving

If you find yourself facing drunk driving (DUI/DWI/OUI) charges, it is of the utmost importance to have experienced legal representation on your side. Attorney Raquel D. Ruano has an in depth understanding of Massachusetts drunk driving case law and can protect your legal rights.